January 04

Born in 1890 in Porum, Oklahoma, Acord rose to fame as a rodeo performer before entering Hollywood. He starred in over 70 silent westerns, performing his own stunts and earning a reputation as the real-deal cowboy. Acord’s fearless approach on horseback and in action sequences captivated moviegoers of the 1920s. Despite success, he struggled with personal demons and the transition to sound films. His legacy endures as one of the most authentic and adventurous cowboy stars of early American cinema.

Mae Questel was an American actress and voice artist who became famous for bringing to life the cartoon characters Betty Boop and Olive Oyl. Born in New York City in 1908, she began her career in Broadway revues before joining Max Fleischer Studios in the 1930s. Questel's distinctive, high-pitched voice defined Betty Boop's flirtatious persona and later lent Olive Oyl her iconic exclamations in the Popeye series. She continued performing on stage, in film, and on television for over six decades. Questel also taught acting and voice work to aspiring performers. Her contributions to animation voice acting earned her a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Questel's work influenced generations of voice artists and left a lasting mark on American cartoon history.

Iron Eyes Cody was an American actor and stuntman who became synonymous with Native American roles in film and television. Born Espera Oscar de Corti in 1904, he adopted the stage name Iron Eyes Cody and cultivated an image as a Native American performer. Cody appeared in dozens of Westerns and was celebrated for his authentic-appearing performances. He achieved iconic status in the early 1970s as 'the Crying Indian' in Keep America Beautiful's anti-pollution public service commercials. The advertisement's powerful imagery and Cody's tearful reaction brought environmental awareness to millions. Despite later discussions about his true heritage, Cody remained a beloved figure in popular culture. His legacy endures through his contributions to film and environmental advocacy.

Tom Long (1968–2020) was an Australian actor celebrated for his versatile performances on screen and stage. He gained widespread fame for his role as Diver Dan in the hit television series 'SeaChange' and made memorable appearances in films like 'Two Hands' and 'The Dish.' A talented stage actor, Long worked with major theatre companies across Australia, showcasing his dramatic range in productions from Shakespearean classics to contemporary works. Beyond acting, he was an advocate for diabetes awareness after his own diagnosis with type 1 diabetes at age 34. Known for his warm personality and professionalism, he mentored young performers and contributed to community theatre. His untimely death at 52 was mourned by colleagues and fans alike.

Tanya Roberts began her career as a model before transitioning to acting in the late 1970s. She rose to fame starring as Julie Rogers in the iconic television series Charlie's Angels. Roberts portrayed Bond Girl Stacey Sutton in the 1985 James Bond film A View to a Kill. She gained further recognition for her role as Midge Pinciotti on the sitcom That '70s Show. Throughout her career, she appeared in both film and television, showcasing her range and charisma. Her performances left a lasting impression on fans of 1980s pop culture. Roberts' early passing in 2021 was widely mourned by colleagues and admirers alike.

Glynis Johns began her acting career as a child in British cinema, earning acclaim for her performance in the 1947 film Miranda. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Alma in A Streetcar Named Desire (1951). Johns is beloved for her portrayal of Mrs. Winifred Banks in Disney's Mary Poppins (1964), where she introduced the song Sister Suffragette. Her distinctive husky voice led composer Richard Rodgers to write the song Send in the Clowns specifically for her. Johns has had a prolific career spanning film, theater, and television. On stage, she starred in Broadway musicals and West End productions, showcasing her singing talent. Her versatility and charm have made her a celebrated figure in the performing arts.

David Soul gained international fame portraying Detective Ken 'Hutch' Hutchinson in the television series Starsky & Hutch (1975–1979), which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. Concurrently, he pursued a music career, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart with the ballad Don't Give Up on Us in 1976. Soul's early life included military service and theater training before breaking into film and television. After the success of Starsky & Hutch, he continued acting in movies, stage productions, and guest roles on TV. He wrote and recorded multiple albums, demonstrating his songwriting skills and vocal range. Later in life, Soul became a dual citizen, living and working in the United Kingdom. His contributions to entertainment have left a lasting legacy in both acting and music.

Christian Oliver began his career in the 1990s with appearances in German television series. He transitioned to international screens with his role in the 2008 Knight Rider reboot pilot alongside Justin Bruening. Oliver has since appeared in a variety of film and TV productions, including crime dramas and action movies. His ability to speak multiple languages has allowed him to work in projects across Europe and the United States. Known for his versatility, he has played everything from villains to leading men. Oliver continues to be active in acting, balancing roles in both independent films and mainstream series. His dedication to his craft has earned him recognition among European actors.